Sharon Russell: Blame owners, not their dogs

I am so saddened by the news of the children's 4H animals being killed by the loose dogs. I feel bad for the children and for their innocent animals.

What we need to realize is that no matter how sweet or friendly or well-trained our dogs are, deep down they are still animals and will act in pack behavior if allowed to run loose with other dogs. The blame for this lies with their human owners. There is a leash law in this county and when not obeyed by ignorant, careless or irresponsible owners, this sometimes is the result.

I have three dogs that, when not in my house or my fenced back yard, are always on a leash. Many times I encounter people walking their dogs not on a leash and have been told "don't worry, my dog is friendly." My response is always "maybe my dog isn't."

The leash law is in place not only to protect your dog and my dog, but prevent loose dogs from responding as the basic animals they are. They will chase anything that runs; their primitive brain takes over and regards it as prey.

Please keep your dogs in your yard or on a leash. If you don't, the result may be a tragedy.